The discussion examines the escalating confrontation between Yemen and Saudi Arabia against the backdrop of Yemen’s long-running blockade and regional tensions.
Joining the review are author and journalist, Robert Fantina from Ontario, Canada, and West Asia expert Saeb Shaath from Belfast, UK, who offer complementary perspectives on Yemen’s military response, the humanitarian impact of the siege, and the broader regional implications.
Fantina argues that Yemen’s recent strikes against strategic Saudi targets, including airport and Aramco facilities, demonstrate a significant growth in its military capabilities and expose Saudi Arabia’s increasing vulnerability.
He views the attacks as retaliation for years of Saudi-led aggression and describes the targeting of Sana’a airport as a miscalculation that has strengthened Yemen’s resolve to press for an end to the blockade.
Shaath, meanwhile, focuses on the human cost of the years-long siege, arguing that it has inflicted severe humanitarian and social damage on Yemen.
He interprets Yemen’s recent military and naval actions as an effort to impose a “blockade for blockade” dynamic.
He concludes that Yemen is increasingly seeking to leverage its growing military capabilities to pressure Saudi Arabia into lifting the siege.
